5 mistakes to avoid when renting out a vacation home
Home and garden

5 mistakes to avoid when renting out a vacation home

Renting out one’s vacation home is an excellent way to promote tourism while earning some income on the side. Vacation homes in popular tourist sites are usually in demand throughout the year, as people often enjoy brief stays and sleepovers on long weekends or holidays. But while renting out a holiday home, one should take certain measures for safety and to maximize profits. Here are some common mistakes to avoid while renting out a vacation home: Not considering overhead costs Often, landlords overlook additional costs they should be charging visitors and tenants of vacation homes, such as maintenance costs, utility costs, property management fees, and any other unplanned expenses. Maintaining and managing property at vacation sites is not easy, so one needs to ensure that tenants pay all the required dues. Overlooking local rules and regulations Every locality or town has its own set of rules and regulations. For example, there may be different laws regarding move-in and move-out inspection, new tenant processing fees, and security deposits, among others. So, landlords should know and comply with these laws when they let out their property for use. Not estimating the correct price Sometimes, landlords may underestimate the amount that their property deserves.
3 plumbing mistakes DIYers make and how to fix them
Home and garden

3 plumbing mistakes DIYers make and how to fix them

Plumbing tasks are more challenging than many people would like to admit. Many DIY projects do not go according to plan, especially when done by individuals without experience. When someone tries fixing their home’s pipes and drains for the first time, they tend to make mistakes that can be hard to detect and costly to correct in the long run. This is why people should know the various DIY plumbing mistakes and avoid them. Using liquid drain cleaners instead of tools Many DIYers use liquid drain cleaners in excessive quantities to clear blockages from the kitchen or bathroom sink. While these cleaners may be effective sometimes, one should avoid using them because they can harm metal traps and pipes. There may also come a time when one may have to hire a professional plumber to remove the trap arm and fill it with a corrosive caustic drain cleaner, which is a tougher task than just clearing an obstructed sink. So, instead of making this mistake, one should simply use a snaked or barbed drain cleaning tool to clear blockages from their sink. Wrapping thread tape backward or using the wrong tape Thread tape must be wrapped clockwise around the threads to work correctly.
6 bathroom remodeling mistakes to avoid
Home and garden

6 bathroom remodeling mistakes to avoid

A bathroom is far from only a place to bathe. Today, users want it to look beautiful and function in a way that can help them relax and unwind after a tiresome day. Therefore, remodeling a bathroom to suit a homeowner’s needs is often as exciting as it gets. However, bathroom renovations are not that simple, and a mistake could be detrimental to the project. On that note, here are six bathroom remodeling mistakes to avoid. Lack of planning Planning before a bathroom renovation project is necessary to ensure the job flows smoothly. Whether installing new lighting structures on the ceiling or a mirror on the wall, one should pre-plan such modifications. This is because there might be plumbing and electrical wires in various places, and drilling into them could lead to damage. Ignoring storage space Storage in a bathroom is necessary as it helps take full advantage of the space available. One should add enough storage space to help hold items like toiletries, cosmetics, towels, and other essentials. Individuals could also install hooks on walls or metal racks to keep towels off the floor. Not setting a budget The budget of any project, including bathroom renovations, is necessary to avoid overspending on various installations.
4 kitchen remodeling mistakes to avoid
Home and garden

4 kitchen remodeling mistakes to avoid

One of the first things that comes to mind when remodeling a kitchen is the project’s high cost. However, that should not hinder one from the remodeling task. Instead of avoiding the project, one should plan and create a budget to help one stay on track, although budgeting is not the only factor to consider when renovating. With the number of components involved, remodeling mistakes are easier to commit. Some of them to avoid are: Not hiring experienced professionals Renovating one’s own home is like a dream project. However, it is important to acknowledge that one person cannot do it all. Homeowners should recognize their limitations instead of attempting to achieve everything. This is particularly true for tasks such as plumbing and electrical work, which, if done improperly, can cause damage or injuries to the home dwellers and the property. Hiring experienced professionals and ensuring things are done correctly rather than attempting such critical tasks is advisable. Not having a timeline Creating a gorgeous and functional kitchen can take a long time. Some individuals might be working on the project while working full-time, which can cause the DIY project to last longer. However, it is important to have a timeframe in place.
5 reasons all homes need a water purifier
Home and garden

5 reasons all homes need a water purifier

All homes do not have access to clean and safe drinking water, which isn’t available to everyone today. Water-borne diseases and health issues caused by unsafe drinking water can pose a serious risk and cause harm to one’s health, and as such, water purifiers can ensure clean and safe drinking water. Here are a few reasons a water purifier is a good investment for one’s health: 1. Removes chemical contaminants Tap water is treated very often with chlorine by municipal water treatment facilities. While these disinfectants neutralize parasites, bacteria, and pathogens, they could also leave behind harmful byproducts like trihalomethanes and chloramines, whose long-term exposure has been linked to serious health issues like cancer. Reverse osmosis water purifiers and activated carbon filters absorb the chlorine molecules, bind them to a surface, and prevent them from passing through the filter. The removal of chlorine also improves the taste and odor of water and may reduce any ill health effects that could result from drinking water with very high levels of chlorine. 2. Ensures added security Contaminants from pollution, outdated or faulty water pies, residue from pesticides (in the case of well water), and even extreme weather conditions can put a strain on municipal water treatment facilities.
5 tips for choosing the best water purifier
Home and garden

5 tips for choosing the best water purifier

With the increase in pollution levels, the concern for water contamination is on the rise. This also extends to drinking and cooking with such contaminated water as it can lead to health complications. To avoid such problems, it is advisable to install water purifiers. It helps access contaminant-free drinking water and keep oneself hydrated, essential for maintaining good health. However, one has to filter through numerous options and find a purifier that suits the requirements. Tips for choosing the right water purifier Check water quality It is first necessary to check the quality of water before selecting a water purifier. Depending on one’s residing location, one might have to deal with one or more water contaminants, varying from place to place. The contaminants present in the water would determine the type and quality of purifier required. Assessing the water quality beforehand can assist in choosing a purifier that efficiently eliminates all the contaminants and improves the quality of drinking water. Set a budget Before making any purchase, it’s important to set a budget. This helps filter out irrelevant options and allows one to focus on the important features of the product that will be useful in the long run. By sticking to cost-effective options, one can appreciate their purchase without overspending.
4 common roofing mistakes to avoid during renovation
Home and garden

4 common roofing mistakes to avoid during renovation

Proper roofing is integral to the structure of a house, and sometimes, even small errors in roofing, like a misaligned nail or using sub-standard shingles, can cause damage. While carrying out renovations on roofing, there are a few things to keep in mind, and not adhering to these can cause water damage, mold, and rot to permeate through the roof. Check out these common roofing mistakes that can occur during roofing renovations. Fitting a new roof over the old roof The only way to know what’s wrong with the old roofing is to tear it down and inspect it. Only after this can one ensure a correct roof repair or replacement. Installing a new roof over an old one without finding out the underlying issues is just covering up the problem and could result in costly repairs down the line. Also, the additional layer could increase the weight of the roof and put added pressure and stress on the walls. Using sub-standard shingles Buying shingles of strong and lasting quality is important so that they can withstand harsh weather conditions. Skimping on shingles during roof renovation only means that one may need to replace them sooner than usual, defeating the purpose of trying to save money in the first place.
6 common window and door maintenance mistakes to avoid
Home and garden

6 common window and door maintenance mistakes to avoid

Maintaining doors and windows does not seem that difficult, but if one does not keep up with it, the doors and windows could endure damage and excessive wear and tear. This could prove costly in the long run. Cleaning them only counts for something if care is taken to maintain their structure and moving parts. From irregular oiling to skipping caulking and sealing, here are some common door and window maintenance mistakes that most people make: 1. Irregular cleanup Dust and dirt tend to accumulate near tracks, frames, and corners of doors and windows, making them look shabby and affecting the movement of the hinges. Regularly cleaning these areas with mild detergent and soft cloth that won’t leave scratches and checking for signs of wear and tear helps improve the appearance and performance of doors and windows. 2. Overlooking moisture-related issues Moisture and wood do not go together, and continuous moisture can deteriorate the wooden frames of windows and doors, encouraging rot, mold, and mildew. Maintaining proper ventilation in the home, using exhaust fans in high-humidity areas, and immediately fixing any water-related issues helps maintain the strength and integrity of doors and windows. 3. Using harsh cleaning products Using ammonia-based cleaners and rough scrubbers to clean glass windows and wooden doors can lead to scratches and material damage over time.
4 handy tips to choose a pest control company
Home and garden

4 handy tips to choose a pest control company

Pests can spread infections and become a menace for those staying in the house. While sprays, coils, and baits may help reduce their number, they may not be long-term solutions. Regular pest control is necessary to ward off these insects for longer periods and prevent them from forming colonies. Selecting a pest control company requires some research and thinking. These four tips can help one choose the right provider for their needs. Find out which methods the company uses While there are different ways to get rid of pests, not all are 100% effective. Moreover, some companies use solutions that can harm people if they inhale them. So, one should ask the pest control company which methods and products they use and check if those options are safe and effective. Understand the specific pest control requirements Although general pest control can stop pests, one may sometimes need specific solutions depending on the type of pests thriving around one’s house. Rodent control, termite control, and bug control are some options companies provide. One should inspect the place to find out what type of pests prevail the most and check with the pest control company if they can cater to these requirements or not.
7 cleaning mistakes that can ruin carpets
Home and garden

7 cleaning mistakes that can ruin carpets

Carpets are a significant part of the home’s aesthetics. However, not many people know how to care well for them. This results in frequent mistakes that can damage the carpets and cost a lot of money. These have been recognized by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration (IICRC), and steering clear of them can help extend the life of the upholstery. Read on to learn about seven carpet cleaning mistakes and ways to avoid them. Scrubbing vigorously Scrubbing carpets too hard is not an effective way to remove the stains. In fact, it causes more damage to the fibers and can push the stain in deeper. Instead of scrubbing, try a blotting motion to lift any stains before following up with cleaners. Acting too slow Don’t wait for a spill to dry up, as this can make cleaning tougher. During this time, the spill seeps through the carpet fibers and reaches the padding, increasing the risk of mold growth. Try to clean it up as quickly as possible. Using the wrong products Today, carpets are made of a variety of fabrics. Each of the fabrics requires special care and attention, including certain cleaning products. Using the wrong cleaners can damage the integrity of the fibers and worsen fraying.

Top Articles

6 hotel booking mistakes to avoid for the best deals
travel

6 hotel booking mistakes to avoid for the best deals

Planning your travel itinerary is one of the most critical tasks to pay attention to, especially while reserving bookings online. Holiday deals and bundled packages might be tempting at first glance. But there are certain rookie booking mistakes and not-so-obvious pitfalls to avoid losing money. It doesn’t matter if you are a veteran traveler or a first-timer. Pay attention to these 6 common booking mistakes and get the best deal on the first attempt. Not reading reviews When you have website reviews available for reference, use them before comparing cheap hotels in Orlando or other locations. Filter hotels by best reviews and read a few for the chosen place of stay. Learn about their service and quality of amenities, and see whether it is worth booking in the first place. Not booking a refundable room Travel plans can change, so you need to account for contingencies that affect your booking dates. Always book a refundable room even if your plans change on the spur of the moment. Not using the hotel’s website Booking through third-party websites may fetch you cheap hotels in Orlando. But booking a room through the hotel website that offers the same discount or price match can be more beneficial.
4 travel mistakes to take a break from
travel

4 travel mistakes to take a break from

Whether you are a novice wanderlust or have been to hundreds of places, mistakes are a part of the process. But, it is important to learn and avoid the mistakes that might ruin your journey. One of the common traveling mistakes to avoid is taking connecting flights as you might have to cancel or modify back-to-back bookings in case your first flight is delayed. Read on to know some other travel mistakes to avoid. Overpacking Choosing what to pack is a hard job. But being weighed down by your bulky suitcase is a lot more difficult. Start off with choosing the bag that is right for the duration of your trip. Don’t go for a big bag. The bigger the bag, the more will you be packing. With a smaller bag, you’ll only carry things necessary for the trip and there are no extra options. Moreover, with limited belongings, you can easily keep your hotel room clean. Visiting several destinations Taking time off from your routine does not mean you spend every minute of the couple of days you have off in traveling. It is a common mistake most travelers make and one that you need to avoided on your next trip.
Best upcoming Viking cruise deals in 2021
travel

Best upcoming Viking cruise deals in 2021

If you’ve been craving to travel and are ready to get back out there and explore the wonders, here’s some good news: the Viking Ocean Cruises are now operational! In this article, we’ve compiled the top four cruises just for you. We’ll discuss the dates, cruise itinerary, prices, and all that’s included in the said package. If you’ve wanted a fun-filled escape, now is your chance! Bermuda Escape – $1,799 pp If you’re someone who enjoys impromptu plans, this one’s for you! This seven-night cruise departs on June 15, 2021, from Hamilton. The itinerary includes cruising through the Atlantic ocean, St. George, and King’s Wharf. The cost includes a cabin with a private bathroom, Wi-Fi, select dining, most onboard entertainment options, shore excursions, room service, and basic hot and cold beverages. The price also includes port taxes and fees. Malta and The Western Mediterranean – $3,599 If you’d like to treat yourself and your family to an extended vacation, this 11-day cruise is perfect. The Viking cruise departs on July 27, 2021, and sails through three gorgeous countries – Malta, Italy, and Spain. The cruise also includes shore excursions on each port. You get a room with a private veranda, luxurious bath essentials, dining at an alternative restaurant, stateroom steward, twice-daily housekeeping, and a spa.
Top 3 river cruises to take in 2022
travel

Top 3 river cruises to take in 2022

Cruise options in the past few months have been very limited, but things are surely going to change by 2022. Some river cruise liners are planning on embarking with every health and safety protocol in place. They will run with limited passengers, which means you will get a more intimate experience with less crowd. So, if you missed the waters, take a look at the three best river cruises that you can take in 2022. The Mighty Rhine to Switzerland Arena Travel brings a seven-night-long river cruise on their 4-star MS Arena vessel. Starting from Cologne, UK the cruise takes you to Rhine Gorge past the iconic Lorelei rock to Rüdesheim. On the third day, you reach Speyer and take in the sights of its museums and cathedrals. Next comes Strasbourg and then Basel, where travelers get to spend the day at the Swiss resort of Lucerne, Switzerland. Other cities include Breisach, Alsace, Mannheim, Heidelberg and Mainz. This river cruise sets sail in June and July 2022 with prices starting from approximately $1500 per passenger. Mekong River Cruise This 16-night-long tour package cruise by Smithsonian Journeys includes seven nights at the Mekong river. Passengers will visit three Southeast Asian countries:
4 websites that offer amazing deals on hotel bookings
travel

4 websites that offer amazing deals on hotel bookings

There’s hardly anything more fun than traveling and exploring new places. The excitement of creating an itinerary and the thrill of being on the road is unmatched, but it’s so much better if the “getaway” is well in your budget. Accommodation is an important factor that determines your overall travel expenses, so deals on that front can help you save big. Here are some of the best hotel booking websites to help you compare deals and plan a budget-friendly trip: Priceline Priceline may come across as your regular hotel booking website, but it offers some outstanding features. For instance, it offers amazing discounts through its Express Deals® feature and free cancelation on most hotels to ensure flexibility. Additionally, Priceline offers a generous best-price guarantee and assures a 100% refund of the price difference if you find a lower price within 24 hours of booking. That’s not all! They offer a 200% refund of the price difference if you find a better price on an Express Deal®. Kayak Kayak is one of the top hotel booking sites for comparing deals and is known for its filtering options and map feature. Just click on your destination on the map, and Kayak will give you all the information you need, including stay options.
Top 5 cruises in Europe
travel

Top 5 cruises in Europe

Europe has been touted as one of the topmost fabulous destinations for tourism. With a large variety of landscapes and different types of attractions available, the scenic locations here are full of culture and heritage. So, it is a complete delight to embark upon cruises, ranging from the river wonders such as the Seine to vast ocean cruises. To that effect, we have curated a list of top cruises available in Europe for you: AmaWaterways AmaWaterways River Cruise line offers many itineraries that take you through some of the most beautiful cities in Europe, including Paris and Santorini. Enjoy the intimate river ships offered here with exquisite dining options and a lot more. If you wish to enjoy culture to its fullest, AmaWaterways is definitely an option you would want to consider. Avalon Waterways River Cruise Avalon Waterways is one of the best ways to explore the majestic Danube, Rhine, and even the Seine. The Danube cruise runs through beautiful countries, such as Slovakia, Croatia, Germany, Austria, Bulgaria, and Serbia. On the other hand, the Rhine river cruises would take you through France, Switzerland, Germany, Holland, and Belgium. Apart from this, you can also embark upon Moselle River cruises, Saone River cruises, and Rhone river cruises.